Governor Seyi Makinde and his wife, Mrs Tamunominini Makinde, took part in a walk against Sexual and Gender-Based Violence (GBV) in Ibadan on Monday as part of the 16 Days of Activism.
The walk, commencing from Oyo Government House and concluding at the governor’s wife’s office, aimed to raise awareness with placards displaying messages like “Zero Tolerance to Gender-Based Violence.”
Mrs Makinde, addressing the participants, disclosed the State Government’s plan to establish a Sexual and Gender-based offense register.
She expressed satisfaction with existing police desks recording GBV offenses, emphasizing the importance of creating a state record to serve as a deterrent and protect potential victims.
She expressed dismay at reported cases of female children being raped and impregnated by close relatives in the state, underscoring the seriousness of the issue. While noting the presence of the Violence Against Persons Prohibition (VAPP) Law and a family court to handle such incidents, she urged collective efforts in the fight against GBV.
Governor Seyi Makinde, actively participating in the walk, emphasized the state’s unwavering stance against GBV and pledged to enforce relevant laws.
He highlighted the campaign’s goal to draw public attention to vulnerable groups, ensuring gender-based violence is not tolerated in the state.
Governor Makinde commended security agencies for their efforts in combating GBV and noted the need for continued vigilance to address the issue effectively.
He addressed the misconception that poverty hinders protective actions, urging a collective commitment to safeguard vulnerable members of society.
